Dojo & Tatami Etiquette

 

It is important that each student shows the proper respect for the Dojo, the Tatami and the Sensei's.With this in mind the students are expected to follow some simple guidelines.

 

All students will:

• Arrive in good time for the Lesson.

• Ensure that all nails are kept short and any long hair is tied back.

• Remove all jewellery before commencing training. (Wedding rings are the only exception but these must be taped).

• Ensure Mobile phones are turned off before entering the Dojo (Unless under special circumstances and agreed with Sensei prior to the lesson commences.)

• Remove all shoes before stepping on to the tatami.

• Inform Sensei of any injuries / conditions which may affect your training ability.

• Rei when entering and leaving the Dojo. (Always facing into the Dojo).

• Rei when stepping on and off the Tatami. (Always facing into the Tatami).

• Refer to a Dan grade by the respective title Sensei followed by their given name.

• Rei to a Dan grade after being shown a Technique (Waza) on a one to one basis.

• Rei to a Dan grade after practicing a Technique (Waza) with a Dan grade.

 

Weapon Etiquette

 

When weapons are required either as part of a lesson or as a demonstration all rei’s should be performed formally with the weapon being held correctly.

• A Bo is one of the only weapon which is to be carried in the right hand this is because the bo was historically considered a ladies weapon.

• Jo’s should be carried in the left hand.

• Tanto’s should be concealed in the fold of the jacket with the hilt of the tanto visible.

• Katana and wakizashi should be held in the right hand or passive stance.

During the lesson, if you are asked to hand over a weapon this must be done completely passively holding the weapon out in front at arms length and rei to the person you are handing it to.